The UK Comics Creators Research Report presents findings from a survey run last year by the Comics Cultural Impact Collective, the Association of Illustrators (AOI) and the Society of Authors (SoA). Data from the survey shows that comics creators are struggling to make a living from their art. Almost 90% of those respondents who earn an income from traditional publishing do not earn the national living wage from their comics work. And 13% are relying on state benefits.
This is set against a picture of an industry which is gaining cultural visibility and seeing a dramatic increase in sales.
The report includes figures from the NielsenIQ BookScan, showing that in 2025 the UK comics market reached its highest-ever total sales, making £78.7 million, an increase of 13.9% from 2024. Children’s comic strip fiction and graphic novels hit £25.9 million – a 28.7% increase on the previous year, and the biggest sales year the category has ever recorded in the UK.
As comics and graphic novels have become increasingly popular, there has also been a growing recognition of their role as an accessible and welcoming way into reading. 2026 is the National Year of Reading and comics play a key part in the campaign, providing a vital tool for engaging children and young people.
But while the sector is booming, the landscape for creators is increasingly precarious. Alongside low pay, comics creators are experiencing rising pressures on their time as they juggle multiple jobs and administrative tasks, as well as rising costs. Other challenges include the threat from AI and the lasting impact of Brexit.
And, despite their growing status, comics still receive negligible public investment compared to other art forms in the UK.
As the report puts it, the medium is thriving but “the people who make comics thrive are, more often than not, struggling to survive”. To address this, the report makes seven core recommendations for funders, policymakers and industry bodies. These include developing comics-specific vocational training and apprenticeships, creating practical guidance resources, and recognising comics as a cultural art form in UK policy.
Hannah Berry, an award-winning comics creator and former UK Comics Laureate, who led the project, said:
“This is an industry that needs urgent attention, and finally — amid an exciting artistic gold rush, glittering with potential for shiny new works to reach delighted new audiences — it might just receive it.”
Anna Ganley, Chief Executive of the SoA, said:
“The results from this survey provide insightful data into the working conditions and pay of comics creators. This report is valuable and timely as improving contract terms is a current high priority area for the SoA. Comics creators aren’t spared by the AI threat, and this report is another reminder that urgent action is needed from Government to protect our world-leading creative industries.
“Comic creators are a core part of our creative industries and should be recognised and supported as such by being provided with access to funding. Tailored support from DCMS and Arts Council England would help to ensure that comics creation is a sustainable creative career.”
Josie Dobrin OBE, Chair of the AOI, said:
“Comics are a rapidly growing part of our creative industry, yet this report clearly demonstrates that many creators are not sharing in the success of this growth. We urgently need to address the gap between a booming market and the reality of low pay, insecure work and increasing pressures experienced by many comic artists. By bringing these experiences together, the report strengthens the case for meaningful action – from fairer funding and recognition, to targeted support to make comic creation a sustainable career. Comics are playing an increasingly important role in engaging readers and reflecting our society, so it’s time that the people behind them are properly valued and supported.”
